During the summer and early fall of 1877 the U.S. Cavalry was in pursuit of Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce Indian tribe as they attempted to cross through Montana and reach Canada. After numerous battles, including the battle of the Little Big Hole in early August, the Cavalry found it difficult to follow and locate Chief Joseph and his traveling tribe. After a forced march of several days, the Indian camp was located near Bear Paw Mountain, where the final battle that lead to the surrender of the Nez Perce nation occurred on September 30. After four of the five officers of the Seventh Cavalry were wounded in the first charge, Lieutenant Henry Romeyn of the 5th Infantry led the charge, mounted on a captured Indian horse. He led his command into close range of the enemy and held his position. He was seriously wounded in action and Private Henry Hogan braved the withering fire to carry the wounded officer from the field of battle. Both men received Medals of Honor in the Bear Paw Mountain battle, making Private Hogan's action one of the few instances in history where the Medal of Honor was awarded for saving the life of a Medal of Honor recipient. Seven other men earned Medals of Honor in the Bear Paw Mountain battle.

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